I got a 34 C (36 E, 32 M, 35 R, 34 S) and 7 Writing. I am considering some sort of science major at Carnegie Mellon. The average math subscore for the College of Science is 34. I know it is generally not worth retaking a 34, but considering that my math subscore would be below average, should I retake? Or should I just focus on doing well on the SAT Math II? Also, would it be worth retaking with the writing section (I am applying to colleges where its required, but I don’t know if my score is high enough)?
it probably won’t hurt to retake especially if you’ve only taken it once.
CM would want to see a higher math score anyway
@eastcoastrower For colleges that require it, do you think my writing score (7) is fine or should I retake it with writing?
There is this thing called regression toward the mean. This means high scorers are apt to get scores closer to average on repeated tests and Ade more likely to earn higher scores approaching the mean in the case of very low scores. So, getting a higher score on a standardized test is more difficult than earning a high score in a midterm. Therefore you need to look at the cumulative score first, if the overall score goes up, you have some improvement somewhere. Next get out your mental scales, math may improve to 33 and another science drop to 33. With movement potentially in five scores, targeting math for a higher score may not work out. Sometimes, you can send in your highest score on each part, or all tests taken, or let you choose the one that you decide is much more representative of you.